“I think everyone should have Lp(a) measured.”
Dr. Ann Marie Navar
Key Resources to Go Deeper:
- Dr. Ann Marie Navar
- Lp(a)
- Get a Free Test to Check Your Lp(a) Level
- Previous episode with Dr. Navar about ApoB
About This Episode:
Join us for an enlightening discussion about Lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a critical but often overlooked marker for cardiovascular health. In this episode, host Barbara Hannah Grufferman takes a deep dive with medical expert Dr. Ann Marie Navar from UT Southwestern Medical Center about why this single test could be vital for understanding your heart disease risk, especially if you have a family history of early cardiovascular disease.
Key Topics Covered:
- What Lipoprotein(a) is and how it differs from standard cholesterol measurements
- Why Lp(a) testing is particularly important for certain individuals
- The genetic nature of Lp(a) and its implications for family health
- Current treatment options and promising new therapies on the horizon
- Practical steps for discussing Lp(a) testing with your healthcare provider
Key Takeaways:
- Lp(a) is a distinct type of cholesterol particle not captured in routine lipid panels
- High Lp(a) levels significantly increase risk of heart disease and stroke
- Lp(a) levels are primarily determined by genetics and remain stable throughout life
- Current guidelines recommend universal Lp(a) testing for adults
- New treatments specifically targeting high Lp(a) levels are expected by 2026
- Managing other risk factors can help offset the risk of elevated Lp(a)
- Coronary artery calcium scoring can provide additional risk assessment
Learn More About Dr. Ann Marie Navar
Dr. Navar is a preventive cardiologist and epidemiologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center whose research focuses on cardiovascular disease prevention, risk prediction, and clinical decision-making. She is a leading expert in advanced lipid testing and cardiovascular risk assessment. This is Dr. Navar's second appearance on AGE BETTER, following her previous discussion about the ApoB test, which was one of the most down-loaded episodes in 2024.
Connect With Barbara:
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- Email: agebetterpodcast@gmail.com
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Note: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider about your specific situation.
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